Watford quartet's 1,000-mile cycle raises £47k for charity

Richard Stockwell, 51, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2021, was joined by son Tom Stockwell, and friends Ric Thornhill and Lawrence Summers as they rode from John O'Groats to Land’s End.

Starting on September 1, the quartet completed the 1,000-mile journey in 13 days, raising £47,000 for Parkinson’s UK - just shy of their £50,000 target.

Richard Stockwell was diagnosed with Parkinson's in 2021. (Image: Richard Stockwell)

As well as raising money for a cause close to his heart, completing the ride known as JOGLE has been a long-term ambition for Richard.

"My motivation for this ride is multifaceted," he said. 

"I had always thought about JOGLE, and when my son Tom expressed a desire to complete it with me, it felt like the perfect chance to merge a personal goal with raising funds for Parkinson’s UK.

"The PD Warrior programme was instrumental in guiding me through this journey."

The quartet cycled 1,000 miles during their ride. (Image: Richard Stockwell)

Richard was recommended to a specialist rehabilitation programme called PD Warrior by a Parkinson’s UK nurse, leading him to engage with a neurological physiotherapist from LV Rehabilitation named Vicky.

Through Vicky and his own research, Richard learned that maintaining an active lifestyle is a fundamental part of self-care.

He has been grateful for the support of Parkinson's UK, the PD Warrior programme and for the kind donations from the public.

"The support we’ve received has been overwhelming. Every pound raised made each mile, hill climb, and turn off the crank that bit easier to endure," he said.

The team were grateful for the support during their epic ride. (Image: Richard Stockwell)

"I urge you to dig deep with your donation. Through your support, wonderful things can happen that will benefit many.

"I trust Parkinson’s UK to allocate the funds wisely, supporting both those with the condition and research into better treatments."

Michelle Henderson, community fundraiser for the east of England at Parkinson’s UK, added: "We are so grateful to Richard, Tom, Ric, and Lawrence for taking on this incredible John O’Groats to Land’s End cycling challenge for Parkinson’s UK.

"They have raised an amazing amount, which will support vital research. Richard’s determination and resilience, despite having Parkinson’s, is truly inspiring to us all."

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/page/jogle4parkinsons.

Richard is hoping to raise £50,000 for Parkinson's UK. (Image: Richard Stockwell)